Wedding Guest Attacks Security Guard with Key

At approximately 9 p.m. on May 28, deputies responded to a call at 65 Goldenrod Circle in reference to an intoxicated person attacking a security guard.

Upon arrival, law enforcement found a security guard covered in blood, kneeling down on the ground, holding down another male, later identified as Terry Hays, 39, of Lakeland, FL. According to deputies, Hays was “growling” and still combative. When a deputy on scene identified himself as law enforcement, Hays told the deputy he would kill him.

The security guard informed deputies he had been attacked by Hays after Hays became confrontational at a wedding taking place on property. Hays tried to leave in his vehicle but security tried to stop him since he was intoxicated. The verbal argument progressed into a physical confrontation in which the security guard was pushed and then charged at by the suspect. Hays took the keys to his vehicle and stabbed the security guard numerous times in the back of the head.

While deputies attempted to check on the status of the victim, Hays tried to get up. Deputies told Hays to stay on the ground. Hays continued to disobey the deputies by getting up and taking a swing at one of deputies.

According to the deputy who was hit, Hays delivered a “glancing blow to the right temple and forehead”. The deputy was able to tase Hays and get him back down on the ground. Several deputies attempted to restrain Hays and calm him but he continued to fight and resist. Deputies warned Hays he would be tased again if he did not comply. Hays continued to resist and was tased again. He was handcuffed and placed into the back of a deputy’s car, only to kick one of the rear windows out. His legs were then restrained and he was transported to the Walton County Department of Corrections.

The security guard was transported to Sacred Heart hospital for treatment of his injuries.

Hays was charged with battery on a law enforcement officer, aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer, criminal mischief over $200 but less than $1000, resisting with violence, and disorderly conduct.

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